What Happened When A Student Brought A ‘Radioactive Rock’ To Class In Owasso?

Authorities were called to Owasso High School’s East Campus on Monday morning after a student brought a “radioactive rock” to school, prompting a response from local law enforcement and hazardous materials teams.

Around 10 a.m., Owasso police and fire departments arrived at the school after reports that multiple students had handled the rock. According to officials, the student who brought the rock appeared knowledgeable about radioactivity, though it was unlikely to pose a danger.

Out of caution, officials evacuated the immediate area and requested assistance from the Tulsa Fire Department’s HazMat unit. The team arrived within minutes and used specialized equipment to test the rock and surrounding area, determining that it was safe. While the rock registered a slight level of radioactivity, the HazMat team stated it was not above normal background radiation levels encountered daily.

The rock was later handed over to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol Bomb Unit for disposal, and the area was reopened to students and staff after being cleared. No injuries or medical issues were reported.

Police noted that similar “radioactive rocks” can be purchased legally online, as they emit low levels of radiation that are not harmful; however, they urged parents and students to refrain from bringing such items to school unless approved by staff for educational purposes.